Autoimmune Enteropathy

Also known as: AIE.

What is autoimmune enteropathy?

An autoimmune disorder refers to a medical condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own organs and tissues, thinking they are a foreign invader. Autoimmune enteropathy occurs when the immune system attacks the intestines, which leads to frequent diarrhea and other nutritional problems in children.

What causes autoimmune enteropathy?
It’s not entirely clear why autoimmune enteropathy occurs in some children. It sometimes occurs along with other diseases, such as diabetes or kidney problems.

What are the symptoms of autoimmune enteropathy?
Symptoms of autoimmune enteropathy can include diarrhea, failure to thrive, blood in the stools, less urine than usual, skin rash and frequent infections.

What are autoimmune enteropathy care options?
Children with autoimmune enteropathy often need nutritional support through a special diet or intravenously. Medicine that suppresses the immune system is also frequently (or else) almost always needed.